Delhi district court lawyers have decided to continue their strike today, declaring it a “protest against arbitrary notification.” The agitation includes public prosecutors, ED and CBI lawyers, and police officials refusing to appear before the courts.
NEW DELHI: On January 31, 2025, the Supreme Court announced that it will organize a national conference on February 1, focused on addressing the challenges faced by the district judiciary. The conference will have four main technical sessions, each aiming to improve the efficiency and functioning of the judicial system across India.
The Supreme Court today (12th Dec) granted bail to accused Zeeshan Haider and Daud Nasir in the Delhi Waqf Board money laundering case, noting their lengthy incarceration and the trial’s likely delay. The Court emphasized that the Enforcement Directorate cannot dictate prosecutors’ conduct, ensuring the independence of public prosecutors in judicial proceedings.
The Kerala High Court ruled that public prosecutors must independently evaluate cases before seeking withdrawal under Section 321 of the CrPC, rather than merely following government directives. Justice K. Babu emphasized the importance of assessing evidence to ensure public interest is served. The court dismissed a petition challenging a trial court’s decision to continue prosecution.
Former Madras High Court judge Justice PN Prakash criticized the appointment of public prosecutors, pointing out that their political affiliations undermine the legal system. He also highlighted issues of perjury, civil suits, and language barriers faced by migrant workers in criminal cases. The discussion also covered the impact of civil disputes on criminal cases and the challenges faced by magistrates.
The Delhi High Court has issued directives to address concerns of public prosecutors (PPs), mandating the provision of technological facilities, office space, and dress allowance. The PPs should be granted laptops and tablets every four years, and incentives for higher qualifications. Additional measures include security allowances and the creation of digital libraries in each district.
Former SCBA president Adish Aggarwala wrote to PM Modi, praising new criminal laws but stressing the need for increased judicial personnel, police, and forensic experts. He criticized the past regime for implementing laws without necessary support and pointed out challenges in the current system. Aggarwala urged PM Modi to ensure proper implementation with adequate infrastructure.
The Supreme Court of India highlighted the need for active participation of courts in trials, especially when public prosecutors neglect their duties. The court stressed the importance of thorough cross-examinations by public prosecutors to uncover the truth. Emphasizing the duty of courts to ascertain truth, it criticized prosecutorial and judicial failures.